Mona Ruth Bowen Matchett fondly known to many as "Nanna" departed this life for her heavenly home to be with Jesus on Friday, January 22, 2020 after fighting a long battle of declining health for years.

Ruth was born on April 13, 1941 in Chattanooga, Tn. She was a member of Hixson United Methodist Church. Ruth was a lover and strong believer of Jesus Christ. She graduated from Central High School in 1960 and married her first love James Herman Bowen on June 25, 1960. They were married for 17 years until his unexpected death in 1978. Ruth later remarried to Howard Ray Matchett and welcomed two stepchildren. Ruth was employed by the state of Tennessee as a hostess for many years. She was a member of the Eastern Star and ABWA. Ruth was owner at Mona Rays Boutique and Ashland Flowers, until staying at home to be a full-time mother. She made a point to be incredibly involved in her daughter's life and supported her activities as being a home room mom and always being welcoming and loving to all her daughter's friends. Ruth loved camping, fishing, boating, traveling, and entertaining with family and friends in her younger years. She was an immensely proud and loving nanna to two grandchildren and an avid dog lover. Her Boston Terrier, Makenzee of 14 years was her life companion. Ruth was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many. To know her was to love her. She absolutely adored her family.

Proceeded in death by James Herman Bowen. Her dear father and mother, Alfred B. Abney, and Velma L. Abney. Grandmother Sudie Mae Levi. Aunt and uncle, Martha and Dick Ezell as well as Aunt Betty Young. Ray Matchett. Stepdaughter Rhonda Matchett Bell and her lifelong best-friend Betty Heffington.

Survivors include her only child Donna A Bowen (Steve Benton) of Hixson, Tn. Grandchildren Samantha and Nicholas McKee. Loving and devoted brother and sister-in-law Bill and Dianne Abney of Hixson, Tn. Two nieces Lauren Abney and Heather Abney Brown and her great niece and nephew Libby and Jake Brown. Stepson Chris Matchett. Her fur babies Bentley, Winston and Layah who brought her smiles every day. As well as many beloved cousins and friends.

Ruth will be missed dearly by so many but her sweet, strong spirt will live on. The family would like to give a special thanks to Carla Castleberry for wonderful care for many years. Parkridge Hospital and Hospice of Chattanooga.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, January 28th in the funeral home chapel with Pastors Check Starks and Randy Martin of Hixson United Methodist Church officiating.

Interment following at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.

Prior to the service, the family will receive friends from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM at the funeral home.

The family ask that if any donations are made please make them to Human Society of Chattanooga.

Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Service; 4506 Hixson Pike; 423-531-3975.